A dental bridge is the traditional treatment option for tooth loss. The dental prosthesis can replace a few missing teeth or a single lost tooth. Sometimes called a partial denture, a bridge will fit between the existing natural teeth. It attaches to your real teeth on either side of the space where your missing tooth once was. This forms a new “bridge” over the gap in your smile for an attractive, natural-looking result.
Dechter & Moy Dentistry provides dental bridges in Silver Spring, MD near you for lost teeth. Our dentist office also offers permanent, secure bridges that anchor to dental implants. This is the most stable and lasting option. An implant-secured bridge offers key benefits for your long term oral health, such as:
- Reduces bone loss in the jaw. Using implants will help to retain natural bone structure by replacing the lost tooth root.
- Secure result. Dental implants will provide the natural chewing ability and enable confident speech.
- Preserves natural teeth. Using dental implants means that your dentist will not need to degrade existing teeth to accommodate the new bridge.
We will discuss the most suitable options for your health and cosmetic needs. Additionally, we will review all aspects of the treatment so that you can make an informed decision. As a team, we take time with our patients to get to know you, and understand your unique needs. Our dentists provide the services that will meet your needs and exceed your expectations.
The Dental Bridge Process: What to Expect
The traditional dental bridge process begins with an evaluation by one of our dentists. During this visit, we will determine whether a tooth replacement prosthesis is right for you and go over your options. The consultation will establish your needs, goals, and a personalized treatment plan to address them. Key elements that we need to consider are:
- The health of your smile
- The condition of your bone in the jaw
- Your cosmetic goals and desires
- The location of the missing tooth or teeth
- Any medical conditions or medications that may impact your ability to heal
If our dentist determines that a traditional bridge will best suit your needs, we will begin treatment. Placing a dental bridge on existing teeth will take about 2-3 visits. First, our dentist will need to prepare the anchor teeth, or teeth that will hold the bridge in place.
After he prepares the anchor teeth, he will take dental impressions to use to create the custom-fitted appliance. We will send these impressions to a lab. There they will use Dr. Dechter or Dr. Moy’s specific instructions for your tooth color, shape, and overall dimensions to make the bridge. Our team may provide you with a temporary bridge so that you have full function of your teeth while you wait for your new bridge.
Next, we will call you back into our office once we receive the final prosthetic from the dental lab. The final visit will be the placement of the bridge. Your dentist will make adjustments for comfort and proper bite function. You will leave our office will a full set of teeth and a beautiful smile!
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have questions about dental bridges, we have answers. Below are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about tooth bridges.
How long does it take to do a dental bridge?
Getting a dental bridge requires two appointments. At the first visit, we prepare the adjacent teeth and take impressions. It usually takes about an hour or two. Next, we place a temporary bridge.
The lab takes about 1-2 weeks to create your custom bridge. At the second appointment, we fit and cement the permanent bridge. This takes about 30-60 minutes. The entire process, from start to finish, usually takes 2-3 weeks.
Is a dental bridge permanent?
A dental bridge is a long-lasting solution but not considered permanent. With good oral care, bridges can last 10 to 15 years or longer. Regular dental exams, good oral hygiene, and avoiding hard or sticky foods can help extend its lifespan. However, it may eventually need repair or replacement.
Does dental insurance cover bridges?
Dental insurance often covers bridges partially. Most plans classify bridges as a major procedure. Many plans cover 50% of the cost after you meet your deductible. However, coverage varies by plan and provider. Patients should carefully review their plan details and consult their insurance provider. Remember, even with insurance, you’ll likely have some out-of-pocket expenses for a bridge.
How many teeth can a dental bridge replace?
A dental bridge can replace one to four missing teeth in a row. However, the most common bridges replace one to two teeth. The bridge relies on healthy adjacent teeth or implants for support. If you need to replace more than four teeth, partial dentures or dental implants might be more suitable.
Should I get a dental implant or a bridge?
Choosing between an implant and a bridge depends on your situation. Dental implants offer a permanent solution, and they preserve adjacent teeth. They’re great for single tooth replacement and maintain bone health. Bridges, however, work well for multiple missing teeth and are often quicker to complete. They’re also usually less expensive initially. Your oral health, budget, and long-term goals all factor into this decision.
Can dental bridges be whitened?
No, traditional teeth whitening treatments cannot whiten dental bridges. The materials used in bridges don’t respond to whitening agents. We’d need to replace the entire bridge if you want a brighter smile. Some patients whiten their natural teeth first, then get a new bridge to match. Professional cleaning can remove surface stains on bridges, improving their appearance slightly. For a significant color change, replacement is the only option.